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College football started as a fun activity that would benefit athletes and universities. However, people started watching and wagering on the matches, so the sport became a real deal.
Playing it marks a significant part of the American culture, with traditions and rivalries that go back many years. Additionally, college football generates revenue for universities. Their best sports programs bring in millions of dollars each year. Let’s look at three of the most unstoppable college football teams in the 2000's.
In 1976, the team had their first official college football team, and since then, their evolution has been one of the most remarkable. JMU’s first memorable match was in 1980 when they finally managed to move up to D1-AA.
2010 produced one of the biggest upsets in history when James Madison went to Blacksburg and defeated No. 13 Virginia Tech 21-16.
In 2016, in the midst of North Dakota State's total domination of the FCS, It was James Madison that knocked off the defending champs in the semifinals and went to defeat Youngstown State 28-14 in the National Championship game. It was the school's first in football since 2004 and only the second in history. Khalid Abdullah rushed for 101 yards and two touchdowns in the game, and linebacker Brandon Hereford had 11 tackles and an interception.
In the 2017 FCS playoffs quarterfinal game against Weber State, James Madison won 48-45 on a late touchdown pass. In the same competition, but against Morehead State this time, they dominated the game and won with a 51-0 score in the first round.
In 2022, the Dukes moved up to the FBS and went 8-3 over-all. They would have played for the Sun Belt Championship, but were in eligible since it was a transition year from the FCS. This also denied JMU a bowl bid. Instead, Coastal Carolina played for the conference title after getting rushed 47-7 by James Madison in the regular season finale in Harrisonburg. In another bit of comeuppance, the Chanticleers were denied the Sun Belt title when they were thrashed 45-26 at Troy
In 2006 Michigan competed against Ohio State in “The Game of the Century”. Both parties were undefeated and fought hard for a spot in the national championship. In a back-and-forth battle, Michigan quarterback Chad Henne threw for 267 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Mike Hart rushed for 142 yards and three touchdowns. Ohio State won the game 42-39, and went on to lose to Chris Leak (MVP), Tim Tebow and the Florida Gators in the BCS National Championship game.
In 2018, in a game with significant implications for the Big Ten championship race, Michigan dominated Penn State from start to finish, winning 42-7. Michigan’s defense held Penn State’s explosive offense to just 186 total yards and intercepted quarterback Trace McSorley twice. Meanwhile, Michigan’s offense rushed for 259 yards and scored five touchdowns, including three by running back Karan Higdon.
Over the last two seasons, Michigan has taken back-to-back wins over Ohio State and gone on to win two B1G titles. However, the Wolverines have been unable to win a semifinal game in the championship playoffs.
Alabama has had more than its share of big game and great seasons.
The Crimson Tide squad faced Ohio State 2021 at the National Championship Game, making it one of the most unforgettable for their fans. The match was never in doubt, as Alabama dominated from start to finish, winning 52-24. Quarterback Mac Jones totaled five touchdowns (equal to 464 yards), and Receiver Smith totaled 12 passes for three touchdowns (equivalent to 215 yards). Smith was named the game’s Most Valuable Player, becoming the first wide receiver to win the award in over 20 years.
In 2018, at the SEC Championship, Alabama played Georgia in Atlanta. The Bulldogs led 28-14 at halftime and appeared to be in control of the game, but Alabama mounted a furious comeback in the second half. Quarterback Jalen Hurts came off the bench in the fourth quarter to throw one touchdown pass and run for another score to rally the Crimson Tide to a 35-28 victory. Tua Tagovailoa had thrown a TD pass late in the third quarter to git the gap to 28-21, but was forced out of the game with an ankle injury with 11 minutes remaining.
People care about college football teams is the sense of community and identity that comes with supporting a particular school. The feuding between the University of Alabama and Auburn University, known as the Iron Bowl, is among the most intense college competitions.
Fans enjoy watching college football to guess and bet on the best young players entering the professional ranks in the following years. Moreover, numerous fans bet on winners, players and in-game achievements to increase their bankroll. They bet using safe platforms with valid licenses and recommend by professional comparison websites such as King Casino Bonus.
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The College football trend continues to spread across the seas. More European and Asian countries started watching these competitions on live-streaming platforms.